The Dos and Don’ts of Applying for Grants
Applying for a grant to fund your research and development seems simple, right?
Wrong!
When it comes to grant applications, it is so important to understand all the ins and outs of the application process, from understanding which grants are relevant to your field of research, what information to include in the proposal, and keeping in mind the deadlines for the applications!
The grant application process follows a linear trajectory including identifying the funding opportunity, applying, and executing the award.
How can you make sure you have successfully completed each stage of the grant application process in the hopes that your organization can take the next step?
We’ve outlined the important dos and don’ts of applying for grants so you can successfully submit a proposal:
The dos of grant application:
- Register for all relevant grant portals (ERA Commons, System for Award Management, Grants.gov, eBRAP) as soon as possible. Click here to learn more about the portals
- Review the funding announcement in detail and keep a careful eye out for the application format, budget limits, application due dates and the focus that the funding opportunity is dedicated to and make sure it is relevant to you.
- In your proposal, demonstrate the NEED for your project and why YOUR approach is relevant, including both topic and rationale.
- Make sure your required budget is within the budget limit of the funding opportunity and provide a clear outline with the description of costs.
- Identify and include your project evaluation, including data from previous efforts.
The don’ts of grant application:
- Don’t wait to start constructing your application close to the deadline. It will take time.
- Don’t provide a broad description of your project. Be specific, detailed and direct.
- Don’t underestimate the time and resources your project will require.
- Don’t be overconfident and assume the reviewers already have knowledge of your company and the details of your science.
And what is the best way to navigate all these do’s and don’ts?
By working with FreeMind Group! We make sure to work with each client individually to understand their unique needs and collaborate to create a strategy that is directly geared toward their funding needs and create a proposal that is suited to the funding opportunity.
